Zambia’s political crisis has taken another dramatic turn after police summoned opposition leaders Brian Mundubile and Makebi Zulu for questioning.
The Zambia Police Service wants to interview the pair over activities that authorities say could threaten or undermine national security.
Mundubile contested Zambia’s August 13 presidential election under the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity. Makebi served as his running mate.
Police say the two opposition figures sought protection from an international organisation. Authorities also claim they know where the pair is staying.
However, police assured the organisation protecting them that officers would respect their rights. They also promised that no one would harm the two politicians during the questioning process.
Police want answers over national security concerns
Inspector General of Police Graphel Musamba said investigators want to question Mundubile and Makebi about several incidents.
According to police, some of the activities happened at properties owned by or connected to the opposition leaders. Authorities believe those incidents may have links to broader national security concerns.
Police have not publicly presented detailed evidence linking Mundubile and Makebi to a crime. They have also not announced formal charges against either man.
Nevertheless, the summons has intensified an already tense political atmosphere following Zambia’s disputed election.
Mundubile previously rejected the security allegations against his supporters. He described accusations of an attempted insurrection as fabricated.
Election dispute raises the stakes
President Hakainde Hichilema secured a second term after the Electoral Commission of Zambia declared him the winner.
Official results gave Hichilema about 60% of the vote. Mundubile received approximately 38%.
However, Mundubile rejected the outcome and announced plans to challenge it in court. His campaign said it had documented serious irregularities during voting, counting, transmission and the declaration of results.
Independent election observers also raised concerns about parts of the electoral process. Reports found signs that Hichilema’s total may have been inflated. Still, the observers concluded that he would likely have won the election regardless.
Hichilema has denied claims of electoral fraud.
The opposition faces a tight deadline to lodge its legal challenge. Therefore, the police summons could place additional pressure on its preparations.
Raid and arrests fuel political fears
Tensions escalated after security forces raided a property where Mundubile was present shortly after the election.
Police arrested 11 people during the operation. Authorities accused them of possessing materials connected to an armed insurrection.
Former minister Mutotwe Kafwaya died during an exchange of gunfire at the property. His death triggered demands for an independent investigation.
Mundubile disputed the government’s account of the raid. He maintained that the opposition officials were unarmed and accused security forces of opening fire.
The government has yet to release evidence publicly supporting the insurrection claims. As a result, opposition parties and rights organisations have questioned the handling of the case.
United Nations raises concern
The United Nations human rights office has expressed concern about the arrests of opposition figures following the election.
UN officials urged Zambian authorities to respect due process and protect the rights of everyone involved. They also called for calm as the country deals with the election dispute.
The police assurance to the international organisation sheltering Mundubile and Makebi appears designed to address those safety concerns.
Still, many Zambians will watch closely to see whether the pair voluntarily reports for questioning. The public will also expect police to explain the specific allegations against them.
Zambia’s democratic reputation faces a major test
Zambia has long enjoyed a reputation as one of Southern Africa’s more stable democracies. Peaceful transfers of power have helped strengthen that image.
However, the arrests, the deadly raid and the summons against leading opposition figures have raised difficult questions.
Political analysts warn that the government’s response could damage public confidence if authorities fail to provide clear evidence. At the same time, police have a duty to investigate credible threats to national security.
Transparency will therefore prove crucial.
Authorities must handle the case through the courts and follow established legal procedures. Meanwhile, opposition leaders must pursue their election complaints through lawful channels.
The next few days could shape both Zambia’s legal battle over the election and the country’s wider political future.
